And Then, The World Ended

Chapter 43 Hayes

I step through the massive metallic door, my heart racing with a mix of anticipation and trepidation. The interior of the facility opens up like a hidden treasure trove, illuminated by soft neon lights that pulse in time with the rhythmic hum of technology surrounding us. It feels alive, almost sentient.

Emiko leads us down a sleek corridor lined with interactive displays showcasing news from around the world—political debates, fashion shows, celebrity gossip. I can't help but notice the names flashing across the screens: trillionaires and mega-celebrities, all part of this exclusive world we've stumbled into.

"Welcome to District Neonashi," Emiko announces, her voice steady as we enter a central hub bustling with activity. "This is where the elite gather—government officials, influential figures in technology and entertainment... they're all here."

The realization hits me hard. We stand among the upper echelons of society—those who wield power over decisions that shape our lives. I glance at my friends, each one processing this newfound reality in their own way.

Sophie leans closer to me, her eyes wide with wonder and fear. "Do you think they know what's happening outside?"

"Probably," I reply quietly. "They've kept themselves safe while the rest of us deal with chaos."

Jordan shifts nervously beside us, his gaze darting from one group of well-dressed individuals to another as they flit past us like shimmering shadows.

"We shouldn't be here," he mutters under his breath. "We don't belong in this world."

But I can't shake off the feeling that maybe we do belong here—at least for now. This is our chance to gather information about Hanami and their connections within this elite circle.

As Emiko leads us deeper into the heart of District Neonashi, I can't help but marvel at the opulence around us—the walls adorned with artwork that looks like it's worth more than my entire family's estate back home; extravagant lounges filled with laughter and clinking glasses; holographic advertisements for products I can't even begin to fathom.

We finally arrive at a conference room where representatives gather around a long glass table overlooking an expansive cityscape through floor-to-ceiling windows. They discuss topics in hushed tones that ebb and flow like a tide washing over secrets hidden behind closed doors.

"This is where decisions are made," Emiko whispers as we take up positions at the edge of the room, careful not to draw attention to ourselves.

I strain to hear snippets of conversation—talk about upcoming government initiatives, investment opportunities, new technologies poised to change lives for better or worse.

"It's insane," I murmur to Sophie as she joins me at a nearby window. "Look at them—they don't have any idea what's happening outside these walls."

Sophie shakes her head, clearly struggling to process it all. "Or maybe they do know and just don't care."

The weight of those words sinks deep within me as my gaze sweeps over the city—a metropolis shining under neon lights while shadows loom just beyond its borders.

A sudden movement catches my eye as a group of well-dressed figures enter—a trio of celebrities laughing animatedly together, their presence radiating confidence and allure that feels almost magnetic. My pulse quickens; this isn't just any gathering—it's an event filled with names everyone recognizes.

"What if we could use this?" I whisper to Emiko when she returns our focus toward her. "These connections could help us expose Hanami or find out what they're planning."

Emiko meets my gaze with determination burning behind her eyes. "Exactly! If we can get close enough..."

"Yeah?" Jordan interjects skeptically, crossing his arms tightly against his chest. "What if we get caught? What if they decide we're a threat?"